High vs. Low: Bandage Dress

The bandage dress gained popularity in the late 1980s as designer Herve Leger debuted the curve-hugging look. Celebrities and supermodels were pictured wearing these stunning numbers that gave them a coveted hour-glass silhouette. The style experienced a resurgence in 2007 when designer Christopher Kane launched his line of bandage dresses with flirty details like lace trim and plastic seatbelt-style belts. Pretty soon the red carpet was flooded with stars like Lindsay Lohan and Victoria Beckham rocking the classic Herve Leger look currently designed by Max Azria. We think these gorgeous finds in lavender are perfect for the remainder of summer. So, which is which?

On the bottom: Bebe’s one-shoulder gradient banded dress, $98, available at bebe.com. Up top: Herve Leger by Max Azria asymmetrical bandage dress in lavender, $2,000, available at herveleger.com.

Although you should never spend too much on a trendy piece, since you won’t get your money’s worth from it, I must comment on these dresses. Look at that $2000 dress. Even in a photo the fabric looks substantial and quality. The cheaper dress looks like t-shirt fabric. As far as trends go, I like this style. It’s very graphic and modern looking.